Listen: Hiss Golden Messenger’s new song “Mahogany Dread”

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Before they formed Hiss Golden Messenger, MC Taylor and Scott Hirsch played together in the hardcore band Ex-Ignota and the indie rock outfit Court & Spark. While their current sound, an earnest blend of folk rock, is as far removed as humanely possible, the duo continue to carry on musical bits and pieces into their latest album, Lateness of Dancers.

Though quaint and welcoming, lead single “Saturday’s Song” gives the archetypal “I’m ready for the weekend” song a rebellious spin; non-album track “Brother, Do You Know The Road?” is pure Americana amplified by gritty blues undertones; and an alternative version of “Lucia” rattles with vigor and intensity despite its rather bare-bones structure.

The pair continue to tinker with the boundaries of folk with their latest single, “Mahogany Dread”. Here, Taylor and Hirsch pick up their electric guitars and craft a slightly smoky jam that weaves together bits of twangy honky-tonk, earnest John Mellencamp, and spirited Tom Petty. With its steady drums and undulating waves of guitar, the song is perfect for either line-dancing or drunken contemplation, as Taylor’s vocals have the proper mix of pep and lonesomeness to facilitate either action. Throw on your best Wranglers for this one, for sure.

Listen in below.

Lateness of Dancers is due out September 9th via the outfit’s new label, Merge Records. In support, Hiss Golden Messenger have a number of fall tour dates planned, and you can consult the full schedule here.